Senator Rasha Kelej welcomed Maldives First Lady at the seventh installment of the Merck Foundation's First Ladies Initiative Summit to discuss collaborative healthcare programs.
The 7th Edition of Merck Foundation's First Ladies Initiative Summit 2025 was recently held, marking another significant step in the organisation's mission to improve healthcare capacity and address critical social issues across the globe.
The summit, inaugurated by Prof. Dr. Frank Stangenberg-Haverkamp, Chairman of Merck Foundation's Board of Trustees, and Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation, saw the participation of H.E. Madam Sajidha Mohamed, First Lady of the Republic of Maldives, and Ambassador of Merck Foundation "More Than a Mother".
Throughout the summit, discussions focused on joint programs and commitments towards building healthcare capacity, particularly in the Maldives. Senator Dr. Rasha Kelej and H.E. Madam SAJIDHA MOHAMED highlighted their partnership and plans to enroll doctors in various specialties.
One of the key initiatives announced was the launch of seven children's storybooks to address various social and health issues. These books, created in collaboration with The First Lady of Maldives, aim to educate and empower young minds.
Merck Foundation has been actively involved in creating awareness about health and social issues through various means. For instance, they have produced 7 awareness animation films in multiple languages to raise awareness about health issues and support girl education. These films are available in English, French, Portuguese, Spanish, and Swahili.
In addition, Merck Foundation has trained over 3700 media persons from more than 35 countries to raise awareness about social and health issues. This training equips journalists with the knowledge and tools needed to effectively communicate these important messages to their audiences.
Merck Foundation's efforts extend beyond training and awareness campaigns. Through their Pan African TV Program "Our Africa by Merck Foundation", they address social and health issues in Africa through "Fashion and ART with Purpose" Community. This innovative approach combines art and fashion to create a platform for dialogue and change.
Moreover, Merck Foundation has provided 950+ scholarships to high performing but under-privileged African schoolgirls to empower them to complete their studies. This initiative aims to break the cycle of poverty and provide opportunities for a brighter future.
Merck Foundation's impact is not limited to Africa. In collaboration with the First Lady of the Maldives, they are also working to support countries in the Maldives, Seychelles, and Comoros to train in fertility medicine and embryology.
The organisation also manages 15 social media channels with more than 8 Million Followers. They use these platforms to share information, raise awareness, and engage with their audience.
Finally, Merck Foundation launched 8 different awards annually for best media coverage, fashion designers, films, and songs addressing health and social issues. These awards recognise and celebrate the efforts of individuals and organisations making a positive impact in these areas.
The summit concluded with an announcement for a Call for applications for their 8 awards in partnership with The First Lady of Maldives. As Merck Foundation continues its work, it remains committed to creating a healthier and more informed Africa and beyond.
